BURST SHOOTING: Number of recordable images7 images (when there are RAW files with the particular speed)Unlimited consecutive shooting (when there are no RAW files)(depending on memory card size, battery power, picture size, and compression)

Owner's Manuals

Warranty

FAQs

How can I take better pictures with my camera?

Taking better pictures comes with practice and an understanding your camera. You must learn which settings are best for various types of photos, but eventually you will see that you are taking better photos and enjoying your new camera more and more.

You may register your products online by clicking here. It is not necessary to submit this form in order to effectuate the limited warranty. As long as there is a copy of the receipt, your product warranty begins from the date of purchase.

How can I maximize my SD Card?

The maximum amount of space will be achieved when all previous photos have been deleted. The actual number of photos your card can hold will vary depending on the size, resolution and content of the photos.

How can I download video to a MAC?

Connect to your Mac with the USB cable and import with iMovie 11.

How can I copy photos to my PC?

To copy photos to your PC, perform the following steps.

Launch the "PhotoFunStudio" program.

After the program has opened click on the "Copy to PC" icon.

Click on the icon of the connected device.

Please wait while photos are imported.

The pictures showing will be imported when you click "Next".

Choose the save destination by clicking on the "Browse save destination folders" then click on the "Execute" button.

You can check the repair status of your camera by clicking on the link below and entering your email address and password. Click Here or contacting our Call Center at 1-800-211-7262.

How am I able to correct the error message that my laptop does not find the new equipment whenever I connect my Camcorder to the laptop?

Make sure that you are using the supplied USB that comes with the Camcorder. Then, attempt to connect the camcorder to a different USB port. Also, you may try to connect to a different PC to determine whether the issue is with the PC or camcorder.

For some reason I am unable to setup my manual features when manual modes selected on the camera's mode dial. The menu options are also very limited. What could be the issue?

There is a very high possibility that the camera is in the Intelligent Auto mode (iA). If the iA mode button on camera is highlighted in blue then press the button to deselect the option. The iA mode takes preference over all other options when turned on.

For some reason I am unable to navigate through the "Menu/Set" options using the touch screen functionality. Is this normal?

Yes. Touch screen navigation on this camera is for the Quick Menu only.

For some reason I am not able to transfer the MPO files (3D format) from my camera to my pc using the supplied PhotofunStudio software. My JPEG and RAW images transfer without issue.

English is not my native language and I've noticed that Panasonic's cameras sold in the U.S. only support English and Spanish. How can other languages be added?

Unfortunately, they can't. The languages are embedded into the microprocessor, and selected for each regional version of our cameras. A note of warning - do not attempt to load firmware intended for another region into your camera. It will not change the available languages and it may seriously damage your camera. Such damage is not covered under the product warranty.

Does touch shutter work while video recording?

No, photos cannot be shot while recording video with the GF5.

Does touch "MF" work with old lenses via a mount adapter?

Yes, but without "MF" focusing guide.

Does this camera us SDXC memory cards?

Yes, it can use standard SD cards, SDHC cards, and SDXC cards.

Do you supply software for Mac OS10?

We regret to inform you that Apple support is not provided with this product.

Do I need to install firmware updates for my camera that are posted on the Panasonic website?

Firmware updates are usually not mandatory. They are released to correct minor issues that were discovered after the product was released. We suggest you read the description of what changes the new firmware makes. If you are experiencing that condition, you may wish to install the update.

Do I get software with my camera?

PHOTOfunSTUDIO 8.0 LE (Windows XP/Vista/7). This software allows you to copy still pictures or motion pictures to a computer and sort the copied pictures by their recording date and time, model name of the digital camera used, or other attributes. You can write pictures to a DVD, create a Slide Show using your preferred music or effects and so on before saving it to a DVD.

Could the pancake lens from Panasonic be referred to as a prime lens?

Yes, as it has a fixed focal length.

Can you text stamp latitude and longitude GPS information on my photos?

You will only see location, city, landmarks, etc. However, the latitude/longitude information can be seen in the EXIF data.

Can you connect this camera to my TV?

Yes, with the supplied cable.

Can this camera take video?

Yes. This unit can record motion pictures in either AVCHD or MP4 formats.

Can the camera's menu be shown in any other language?

Cameras sold for the US market generally support English and Spanish. Portugese is also now supported in some 2012 models.

Can I use larger (4GB or more) SDHC or SDXC cards in my camera?

Unfortunately not. The transition from SD to SDHC, and from SDHC to SDXC also required some hardware redesigns.

Cameras that are compatible with SDHC will have the SDHC logo on the camera body. 2010 models compatible with SDXC cards will have the SDXC logo on the camera body. More info on the various types of SD cards can be found at http://www.sdcard.org/home/

Can I use a third party software to edit the RW2 ( RAW) files that I take with my camera?

Any program that can open the Panasonic's RAW file can be used. However, RAW files do differ from model to model, so while your software may work with one camera's RAW files, there is no implied compatibility to other models. Many 3rd party software's do offer updates for new camera models as they are released. If you determine your software cannot open the RAW file, you need to check with your sotware's originator for updates.

There are third party software products on the market for SD Card recovery.

Can I record in PAL?

No, NTSC only.

Can I do the same functions of touch operations by using the buttons and keys?

Yes, everything except for "Touch Shutter".

Can I disable touch operations?

You can not completely disable all touch functions, but you can hide "touch shutter" and "QMenu" icons from being seen.

Can Auto Bracket images be saved in RAW quality?

Yes.

Can additional languages be added to the camera?

The camera is unable to add additional languages.

Are there firmware updates available for my camera?

If the "Drivers &amp; Downloads" tab is visible, then there are updates available for your camera.

Firmware updates are occasionally released to correct minor problems that may have been discovered after the camera was released. Not all cameras may experience the issue that was responsible for the firmware update. Review what the firmware changes and see if you are experiencing the problem that the new version corrects. If so, install it - If not, no need.

Are cameras sold in the U.S. covered by an International Warranty?

Generally, no. Some cameras sold abroad are sold with an international warranty. In order for the warranty to be valid, the proof of purchase must show that the camera was purchased in a country that offers products with international warranties. "Gray Goods", foreign versions purchased in the U.S. would generally not have a valid U.S. warranty, and in some cases even obtaining an out of warranty repair could be a problem when parts are not available.

Are 4/3 lenses compatible with micro 4/3 cameras?

Yes, with the proper adapter. Although some operational characteristics may vary from lens to lens.

Am I able to download updated editing software compatible with Windows 8?

The CD-ROM HD Writer AE 4.0 is compatible with Windows 8 OS. When the software is installed, a message "This OS is not supported." will be displayed. However, continue with the installation. An application error message ngen.exe might also appear in the installation process, to resolve this click OK to allow the install to complete. After startup, a message may also appear prompting to turn off the Aero theme. Click OK to proceed, If you do not have a copy of the software, there are copies available for purchase at our Parts Department website:

If you have the original software, PHOTOfunSTUDIO x.x or PHOTOfunSTUDIO x.x HD, that came with this camera you can update to the latest version by clicking here, scrolling down to the PHOTOfunSTUDIO section, and selecting your version.

How do I update the firmware in my camera?

Each firmware file comes with installation instructions to assist you through the process. The firmware downloads can be found in our "Support" section and by clicking on the "Drivers & Downloads" tab.

How do I turn off the "Flash" function?

On most models, press the button just above "menu". It is labeled with a "lightening bolt". Pressing it will offer several options related to the flash operation.

How do I transfer video from my camera to my PC?

Here is how to transfer video to your PC.

The power on both the camera and PC should be on. Connect the camera to the PC with a USB cable.

Open the PhotoFunStudio program.

Click on the "Copy to PC" icon.

Click on the Icon representing your camera.

Click the "Next" button.

A check mark will appear in the corner box of all thumbnails selected for transfer.

There appears to be something wrong with the internal components of the unit. Try resetting the camcorder. To reset the camcorder, go to the Menu screen and select "Setup". Next select "Initial Set". If the issue persists, the camcorder needs to be serviced. Click the link below and submit a new repair request:

Panasonic supplies software with its AVCHD equipped cameras that can play back the motion video files. The most commonly used version of Windows Media Player will not normally play back AVCHD files (without additional video CODECs).

How do I know when my Digital Still Camera battery is fully charged?

When a battery is inserted into a Panasonic charger a green steady light will appear. When the green light goes out, the battery is completely charged, and ready to use in the camera. A blinking GREEN LED indicates a charging problem. The battery can be "shorted", though more often it is caused by a battery that is too hot or too cold. The battery should be allowed to come to room temperature before charging. Also, if the battery is 100% discharged, the blinking condition will subside after the battery has been on the charger for 10-15 minutes. If the condition persists, the battery should be replaced.

How do I install the software?

You can install the software that came with your camera in the same fashion as any other software you may have used on your PC. There are no special procedures unique to this software.

How do I insert/remove the SD card or battery?

The SD Card slot and battery compartment are located next to each other. They can generally be found on the bottom or side of the camera behind the door labeled "Memory card/battery". If you need more assistance please click here for Help &amp; Tutorials.

Press, "Playback" to bring up image, then press "Trash Can" to delete.

How can videos and pictures be transferred to my PC without using the supplied software?

Connect the camcorder to the PC via USB cable. After camcorder and PC are connected, drag and drop the files to the specified folder.Note: The files that are drag and drop cannot be edited, burn or playback using the supplied software.It is recommended to use the supplied software to transfer the pictures and videos to the PC.

How can the error message "Check card" be resolved when inserting SD card.

Confirm the SD card is not in "LOCK" position.Check if the SD works in the PC. If yes, format the SD card using the PC and reinsert the SD card.If the issue persists try to use a different SD card. If the issue remains on all of the SD cards the camcorder needs servicing. Click the link below and submit a new repair request: http://shop.panasonic.com/ecom/onlineRepair/login

Is there any software for the Mac OS that will work with the camera or camcorder?

Yes, iMovie and iPhoto can be used to import the video and pictures.

Is there any benefit to buying "ultra fast" SD / SDHC cards?

For basic digital still photography, any speed card should work just fine. If you shoot a lot in "auto bracket" or "burst" mode, a faster card will allow you to shoot more images while decreasing the time the camera may pause to allow images to be written to the card. For motion HD video, faster cards (Class 6) are required due to the amount of data that is being transferred in real time.

Is there a protective cover for my camera to use when there is adverse weather conditions?

While Panasonic does not endorse any specific product, there are many on the market for protection against rain, wind and dust.Some photographers even use plastic bags fitted over their camera. So the options are many from free to 150.00 - 200.00 dollars.

Is PHOTOfunSTUDIO compatible with Mac?

No, PHOTOfunSTUDIO is not compatible with Mac.

Is it true that a larger image sensor produces better image quality?

It is true that a larger image sensor is partly responsible for the overall image quality, but it is also equally important to achieve a balance between the image sensor and the lens. A larger sensor requires a lens that can take and evenly illuminate the entire active image area, especially in the corner areas. In simpler terms, a larger image sensor requires a larger lens, which in turn makes the entire camera system larger and heavier. One must consider that most camera and lens designs that now use larger sensors were originally designed for film use. When digital cameras use designs (and lens) originally designed for film the image quality, especially at the image's corners, will show visible aberrations and degradation. In comparison, the Micro Four Third system design is purely digital. The lens is designed to project more of the image in a perpendicular plane onto the image sensor's active area. This dedicated design produces more even illumination of the image sensor and sharper images at the photo's corners.

Is a stylus pen included?

Yes, there is a stylus included, although the touch operation is designed to be used with your finger. Please use the stylus pen for the LCD calibration.

In some situations, I find that iA mode does not produce as good a quality as using "P" mode and making some manual adjustments. Why is that?

iA mode will attempt to select the best Scene Mode for each photo. It does so by evaluating the photo and comparing certain key points against a list of typical conditions. As with any "auto" operation, variations and exceptions will occur where auto modes will not produce the best results.

I'm using the iA mode on my Panasonic camera. Sometimes the photos aren't coming out as good as I feel they should. What should I do?

iA (Intelligent Auto) modes are created to improve specific shooting conditions assuming certain conditions exist. It's possible that one scene can be similar to another and the scene mode would not provide the optimum results. In such cases, we suggest using the "P" Program mode. Digital photography allows the customer to see the end product immediately, without the cost of film processing and printing.

I'm traveling overseas and need to know if I need a voltage converter?

The charger that is provided with your camera will work with global AC power, from 90 - 240 VAC; no "power transformer" is required. You will however require a mechanical adapter plug to convert the two pronged plug used in the U.S. to the power connection type used in the countries you will be visiting.

The RAW photo format effectively has no color space. After the desired adjustments are made programs like Adobe's Photoshop allow you to select the desired color space when the file is saved to the JPG format.

If a SDHC, SDXC Memory Card is used for continuous video recording, will it stop recording when it reaches 4GB?

In AVCHD video recording, the file will be divided, but it will not stop recording video. However, in MP4 video recording, recording will stop when 4GB is reached.

I'd like to know if the lens on my Lumix Panasonic camera is plastic or glass?

Panasonic has never made any digital still cameras with plastic lens elements. On some models, the other lens case parts may be plastic, but the optics are high quality glass lens optics.

I was looking for a new SD card for my Lumix and found some that are Wi-Fi enabled ("Eye Fi" brand and similar). Are these compatible with this particular camera?

Panasonic does not specifically set up our cameras to work with this type of SD Card. The best thing to do is check the website of the manufacturer of the card. They usually list all the cameras that their card works with.

I want to enlarge a photo that I've taken. How do I do that?

Go into the "Playback" menu and scroll until you get to "Cropping" Select Cropping and then move the zoom lever to increase the size. Use the control buttons to position the image and then select "Menu/Set"

I think my LCD screen is broken because I'm experiencing a random blinking. Portions of the picture alternately blink from black to white. The screen is OK when I view my pictures I have taken.

This is a feature of the camera. It is called "Highlight" and is found in the set up menu. It is indicating that parts of your photo are over exposed and you will loose features. This can be turned off if you prefer. This is not a problem with the camera.

I see where I am able to use the Panasonic 3D lens (H-FT012) with this product but I am not able to take 3D pictures.

A firmware update is required to have this functionality added to the camera. Also, you would not be able to view the images in 3D on the camera. 3D glasses as well as a 3D compatible TV are required for 3D viewing.

I saw a notice on Panasonic's web site that a firmware update was available for my camera. What is a "firmware update" and is it important that I install it?

Panasonic may occasionally add a new feature to the camera, or if we discover a minor problem after the camera started selling Panasonic may issue new firmware to make the necessary changes. Any new firmware release includes a description of the changes it makes. If you are having the problem it corrects, or if you want to add the new feature, follow the instructions and install the update. You should always begin the firmware update usong a fully charged battery.

I purchased a third party battery for my Panasonic Lumix camera and have discovered it doesn't work. Why is that?

Panasonic's digital still cameras include safety technology that can authenticate a genuine Panasonic battery. Compare to older type nickel cadmium batteries, today's Lithium-Ion batteries can store substantially more power. With this increase, additional safety measures must be included to guard against over charging or short circuits that could cause damage to the camera or even personal injury. Many after market batteries do not include these safety features. Panasonic's design places the customer's safety first.

I purchased a new (larger) SD card for my camera. My PC is unable to view photos on the card, but my camera can. What's wrong?

SD cards larger than 2 GB are classified as SDHC cards. SDHC cards use a different file structure that requires your PC's card reader to be SDHC compliant. The reader in your PC may not be SDHC compliant.

I own a Panasonic DMC-"G" series Micro Four-Third camera. I use an Olympus lens. Olympus just released new lens firmware. How can I install the new Olympus lens firmware using the Panasonic camera body?

I own a "G" series camera. While filming motion video using the manual mode I'm seeing the exposure change when I zoom in and out.

The 14-140 lens is not a fixed aperture lens, nor does it offer a true manual aperture adjustment. At 1X the maximum aperture is F4.0, while at 10X it decrease to F5.8. The change you see is the changing aperture that occurs while zooming. This is normal operation for this type of lens.

I need to download PHOTOfunSTUDIO.

PhotofunStudio cannot be downloaded from the Panasonic web site. If you own a Panasonic camera, please contact our parts department. You will need to provide a copy of your proof of purchase. There is no charge for the software, but there is a minimal charge for the shipping and handling.

I need drivers for a Mac.

There are no drivers required for either Mac or PC.

I need a RAW driver.

RAW files require more than a driver to view the files. RAW files can be read using photo editing programs such as Adobe's Photoshop or Aperture. These companies also release software updates to allow their programs to read each manufacturers newest camera's RAW files. Panasonic's G series cameras also come with Silky Pix, a simplified program that allows the user to open and adjust RAW files.

I just purchased an SDXC card (48 GB or 64GB). When I connect my camera to my computer running the MAC OS it's unable to read the card. Is there an update available?

At this time Apple (MAC) does not recognize or support SDXC media. We anticipate that Apple may already be working on a software solution. Please contact Apple for additional information.

I have just put a brand new Panasonic Lumix G Vario 35-100 F2.8.lens on my GH3 body and don't know how to get it to auto-focus. I don't see anything to 'turn on.

Auto Focus is enabled on the camera body

I formatted my SD Card on my computer and now my camera is saving my pictures to the internal memory.

The newly formatted SD Card is not being recognized by the camera. The SD Card should be formatted in the camera to make sure the format structure is recognized by the camera. Also, make sure the card is not locked.

I deleted some photos from my SD card using my PC. Now, I'm unable to view the remaining photos on my camera. What should I do?

It is not recommended that you delete or modify any photos on your SD memory card using your PC. Doing so can damage the file allocation table and your camera will not be able to read the files. You should immediately copy the remaining photos from your SD card to your PC. After doing so, using your camera, reformat the SD card.

I cannot seem to figure out why the flash goes off twice when shutter button pressed to take pictures.

This occurs once red-eye reduction flash option selected. The subject should remain still until second flash triggered.

I can not see the RAW files on my computer.

Your computer cannot view RAW files by itself. RAW files require using photo editing programs such as Adobe's Photoshop or Aperture. These companies also release software updates to allow their programs to read each manufacturers newest camera's RAW files. Panasonic's G series cameras also come with Silky Pix, a simplified program that allows the user to open and adjust RAW files.

I am using "Sports Mode" to photograph an indoor basket ball game. The photos are dark and the motion is blurred. What should I do?

Sports mode forces the camera to use a fast shutter speed, which requires lots of light. Sports mode is not intended for indoor use. The flash on your camera is not strong enough to properly illuminate a large indoor gym. This accounts for the dark images.

I am unable to use the Viera Link operation when connected to TV with mini HDMI connection. Why?

For this feature to work a Viera Link compatible Panasonic TV is required as well as the recommended Panasonic mini HDMI cable which is an optional accessory that can be purchased from our National Parts Center (1-800-833-9626). The Viera TV remote can be used to control camera picture playback functions on TV.

I am hearing a slight buzzing sound during playback of motion pictures recorded in a quiet environment with this camera. Is there a fault with the camera?

The 14-140 kit lens design that comes with the DMC-GH2 specifically uses internal motors that are virtually silent. Using any other lens, in a very quiet environment could result in the camera's microphone picking up some lens noise mechanically or acoustically. This is normal and not a service issue.

How would using a third party battery effect my cameras warranty?

For safety reasons Panasonic recommends using only a genuine Panasonic battery. Using another battery would not have any direct effect. If an after market battery malfunctions, or causes any damage to the camera, such damage would not be covered under the standard warranty.

How long should my battery last?

CIPA figures which range from 300-400 photos (depending on the camera model). CIPA measurement methods use a very controlled method to measure battery life. The procedure takes a specific number of shots at a fixed interval, with a fixed ratio of flash photos. While this method provides a standardized measurement that can be used to compare two cameras, it's far from how the camera is actually used. Life expectancy can be affected by any of the following:

If the flash is used, the total number of photos can decrease by 30-40%

If the camera has GPS, you can expect up to a 50% reduction in battery life. If the customer has no immediate need for GPS disable the feature in the camera's menu options.

While the battery saver feature will turn the LCD panel off after a preset time (and place the camera into sleep mode) the camera still draws some power from the battery. We suggestion, turn the camera after each shot. At social gatherings, try and minimize passing the camera around the table to have others look at the photos. The LCD panel consumes ~30% of the total power.

How long is the video recording time?

The camera will record video for up to 29 minutes and 59 seconds.

How does auto focus work with the touch screen?

You can directly touch and move the focus area. You can pinpoint the AF area with "1-area AF" and "Face Detection AF". You can select the AF area with "23-area AF".

How does "MF" (manual focus) work with touch screen?

You can select and touch the area you want to focus, "MF" assist works and magnifies the area, (5x or 10x selectable). Easily check the focus with the large, high resolution LCD. "MF" focusing guide will appear when Lumix G lens is attached.

You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader 5.0 or later, or Adobe Reader 7.0 or later installed on your PC.

Which battery and/or charger is compatible to my camera?

The compatible battery is the DMW-BLB13PP and the charger for it is the DE-A49B.

Where can I order parts for my product?

You can order parts and accessories for your machine from our Parts & Accessories Department at 1-800-833-9626.

Where can I find the serial number to the camera?

The serial number can be found on the bottom of the camera usually on a black metalic sticker. In the lower right hand corner is a small silver box with the serial number in it.

Where can I find the firmware for my device?

Click here and enter your model number into the Get Support Now search box. Once your model appears, click on the "Support" link under the picture of your model. This will bring you to the Support Page for your model. If there are any firmware updates available for your model, they will be located under the Drivers &amp; Downloads tab. If there is no Drivers & Downloads tab, your device's firmware is up to date.

Where are Panasonic cameras made?

Panasonic designs its cameras in Japan. The cameras&#160;are then manufactured at Panasonic's manufacturing facilities in both Japan and China.

When using the lens hood and flash is activated vignetting occurs at bottom of some pictures.

The shadow is caused because of the flash's position, relative to the lens shade. You can either remove the lens shade or use an external flash (user provided) that is physically offset from the lens position. This condition is normal.

When loading pictures for GF3 to my computer, the screen shows every other frame to be blank. All pictures taken appear to be there but I have to delete all these blank ones. Is there an easy solution?

Alternating photos that are not viewable were most likely shot in RAW mode. It sounds like you have the camera set to shoot in RAW and JPG simultaneously. In order to view RAW format photos, special software such as Silky Pix must be used. This software was provided to you on the CD that came with your camera.

When I'm trying to photograph indoor sporting events, the photos are out of focus, or dark. Selecting Sports mode does not seem to help. What should I do?

Sports mode forces the camera to use a fast shutter speed. In order for it to work correctly the scene must be very bright, usually not attainable indoors. The flash on the camera cannot illuminate an area such as a school gym. Typically, it can only illuminate an area about 8 feet away from the camera.

The soft focus is action motion blur, caused by insufficient lighting, the camera will select a slower shutter speed.

When I use any of the Micro Four-Third (MFT) lens adapters will all my camera functions work?

When the Four-Third to Micro Four Third lens adapter is used, depending on the lens, most lens functions should work.

When any other lens adapter is used, the lens will only operate in a manual mode. All focus and aperture adjustments must be made on the lens. The lens adapters allow you to use older 35 mm manuals lens that generally did not have any electrical connections to the legacy camera it was designed for.

In these cases the camera's histogram can be used to adjust for proper exposure.

When I shake my camera with the power turned off, I hear a something inside the camera rattling - what is this?

There is no problem, this is normal. The camera's Optical Image Stabilization system uses an internal lens element that is suspended by two magnetic coils. Once the power is turned on the lens is fixed in place and the noise is not heard. The camera does not require any service.

When I print a photo, it never looks exactly like it did on my PC. What should I do?

Your PC's monitor and video card need to be calibrated in order for it to display an image that looks similar to the print. This condition is not a camera malfunction. System color calibration is generally used by advanced and professional photographers and requires software and hardware that can cost several hundred dollars.

What type of video can be recorded?

AVCHD and MP4.

What software will process RAW files on a Mac?

Both Lightroom 4 and Aperture will process RAW files on a Mac.

What size SD Card can I use in my Camera?

Cameras with a manufacturing date of 2006 or before can use Standard Sd Cards ( 2GB Max ) only. Models manufactured from 2007 thru 2009 can use Standard SD Cards and SDHC Cards ( Max 32GB ) Cameras Manufactured 2010 and later can use all SD Cards up to and including SDXC cards (64GBMax ).There is no firmware update that willincrease the maximum size of the SD Card for allowable usage.

What should I do if my camera won't turn on?

First, ensure that the batter is fully charged, keeping in mind that the charge indicator light turns off after charging is complete (approximately 90 minutes). A depleted battery will usually cause the camera to power on, and then quickly off. If your battery is more than a year old, it may need to be replaced. A new battery can be purchased from the Panasonic National Parts Center by calling 800-833-9626 or visiting www.Panasonic.com/parts

What is the difference between AFC (Continuous Auto Focus) and AF Tracking, both offered on G series cameras?

AFC (G Series Focus Mode Switch) The camera focuses on a moving subject. If there is another moving subject that appears at same time, the camera may focus on the unintended subject. In the case of the LUMIX G series cameras, the camera's priority logic focuses on the closer of the two moving subjects. The camera may focus on unintended subject, if the secondary subject appears in front of your primary subject. This function and behavior is a reality with both the phase difference AF and contrast AF.

AF tracking (offered on G Series cameras with touch control). The camera recognizes the selected subject and focuses in accordance with the movement of the subject. In the case of the LUMIX G series cameras, the camera distinguishes and recognizes the subject by the color (and contrast). So a possible scenario could be if the camera focuses on a green vehicle (with AF Tracking) and passes in the front of a tree. The camera may switch focus to the green leaves of the tree. This operation and behavior of the AF tracking feature is only experienced with the contrast AF system.

What is the AFF mode?

It is an acronym for "Flexible Auto Focus" When the shutter button is half-pressed, the auto focus locks on and automatically "tracks" the subject as it moves within the framed scene.

What is O.I.S?

O.I.S (Optical Image Stabilizer) helps to reduce the effects of shake during the recording while walking, or holding the unit and recording the subject while using zoom.

What is Backlight Compensation?

Backlight refers to when light comes from the back of a subject. The subject will become dark, so this function compensates the backlight by brightening the whole of the picture automatically. Backlight compensation is automatically applied in the Intelligent Auto mode.

What is AVCHD?

AVCHD stands for Advanced Video Coding High Definition. AVCHD is the format for recording and playback of High Definition Videos.

In mode 1 the stabilizer operates continuously just as it would in a camcorder to stabilize video. The live image on the LCD or in the EVF is also stabilized, so it also assists in composing the shot when you might be moving.

In mode 2 the stabilizer function is in standby and only activates at the moment the shutter captures the image. While the live image (on the LCD or EVF) is not stabilized, mode 2 will increase the camera's overall stabilization by about 20%.

Mode 3 is designed to be used when you are panning the camera, following motion from left to right or vice versa. Stabilization is only done for vertical movement.

My lens cover won't open or close. What do I do?

We suggest you remove the battery and after a short wait, replace it. If this does correct the issue the camera will need to be sent in for service. Please click here for assistance.Click Here.

My LCD screen is cracked. Can it be repaired or replaced?

Yes the LCD screen can be repaired, but accidental damage is not covered under warranty so there will be a charge. To get more help and information please click here.

My camera's lens won't extend or retract. What do I do?

Remove the battery and replace it. If this does not correct the issue then the camera will need to be serviced. Please click here for more assistance.Click Here.

If you have a second battery, try it to see if you can power on the camera. If you don't have an extra battery and you're sure the battery you have is fully charged then the camera may need to be serviced. Click Here.

My camera can record HD motion video (AVCHD). I created a DVD and sent it to a friend. My friend called to tell me that he cannot play the DVD. Why is that?

AVCHD DVD's can only be played in BD players that are AVCHD compatible.

I've noticed that the software I received with my camera is not compatible with my Mac computer. Where can I get the full version of the electronic operation manual?

The CD that came with your camera contains the full version of the operating manual in the Adobe PDF format. The CD, as well as the PDF file can be read by your Mac. If you require a copy of the Adobe Acrobat reader, it is available as a free download from the Adobe.com web site.

Is this a multi-standard camera where I could select between NTSC and PAL video recording in menu?

No. Cameras sold by Panasonic in the US conform to the NTSC video format used here. Cameras sold abroad would conform to the video standard used in their respective regions.

Why doesn't the live view LCD display image change when I change the aspect ratio?

Your camera has an internal buffer to allow you to take successive photos. If the SD card you are using is too slow, the camera may pause until the photo data is transferred from the camera's internal buffer to the SD Card, before the next photo can be taken. It usually occurs when older, smaller SD Cards (1GB or less) are used. We recommend that a class 4 or higher SD cards are used.

Your camera also has a feature called "Focus Priority" which will prevent a photo from being taken if Auto Focus failed to focus properly. This feature can be disabled from the camera's menu settings.

Why do I have spots on some of my photos?

Spots can occur due to dust or dirt inside the lens, or when flash is used in a very dusty environment.

Why do I get a message saying my camera will not read the Sd card?

In such cases, first, try formatting the card using the camera. We do not recommend using your PC to format the card. If the problem persists, try using another SD card.

Why do I get a black screen when I play back pictures on my camera?

When original pictures on an SD card have been altered by rotating, stretching or editing and are not saved back into its original file folder (DCIM/pana) the file extensions are altered and therefore the camera cannot playback the image and instead displays a black screen. The pictures can still be viewed and saved on the computer however once altered they can no longer be viewed on the camera. A black image on the display can also be caused by accidentally deleting one of the movie images file. A video will create several files - if one of these files are deleted the camera will not recognize the format and therefore will display a black screen.